1. Study in Singapore
By choosing to study abroad in Singapore, international students have an opportunity to not only be plugged into an education system that promotes excellence, but also be a part of a global community.
2. Stay in Singapore
Singapore is a stable and developed nation in the South East Asia. This cosmopolitan city state is renowned for its efficient government, first class infrastructures, as well as being a global melting pot of diverse cultures. The country’s orderliness, cleanliness and its green environment have attracted people from all over the world to visit, work and study.
Due to Singapore’s strategic geographical location and free trade policy, the country is the business and financial hub of the region. The city state has enjoyed strong and stable economic growth since gaining independence in 1965. Over the last decade, Singapore has also developed a vibrant art and cultural scene.
The country is evolving at every moment which provides different experiences.
3. Geography
| Location: | Southeast Asia, islands between Malaysia and Indonesia |
| Area: | Approximately 683 sq km |
| Terrain: | Lowly and gently undulating central plateau contains water catchment area and nature preserve |
4. Living Space
There is good reason why Singapore is also referred to as a ‘city in the garden’. With lush belts of greenery contributing to the cityscape, Singapore offers a comfortable living environment. The city’s hostels, homestays, private and public apartments are unrivalled for their modernity and comfort.
It is easy and inexpensive to get around Singapore on our integrated transport system of efficient air-conditioned bus services, modern Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) lines and affordable taxi services.
5. Accommodations
Students are advised to make their own arrangements prior to arriving in Singapore but temporary accommodation can be arranged while they find somewhere much more suitable for the remainder of their stay here in Singapore. However, the College can assist the students’ in finding accommodation. Lodging is relatively easy to find in Singapore. Students can choose to co-rent a 2-or 3-room flat in an apartment. The estimated rental for a room varies from $350 – $650, depending on whether it is public or private apartments. Public housing refers to Housing Development Board (HDB) flats and each housing estate is designed to be a self-contained neighbourhood served by supermarkets, food centres, clinics, schools, libraries and shopping malls. Private housing would normally be in condominiums with luxurious facilities like swimming pool, tennis courts and 24-hour security services. Rental depends on the size, condition and location of the apartment. Other determining factors include amenities (laundry, cooking facilities, telephone, electricity, water) and flat furnishings.
6. Climate
| Type: | – Equatorial; hot and humid climate; – June to September are the hottest months; – November and December are the wettest months due to Monsoon season; |
| Temperature: | Ranges from 22°C to 34 °C (72°–93°F) |
7. Demographics
| Population: | 4.99 million |
| Ethnic Groups: | Chinese (77%), Malay (14%), Indian (8%), Eurasians & people of other descent (1%) |
| Main Religions: | Buddhist, Muslim, Christian, Hinduism, Sikhism, Taoist, Judaism |
| Language: | English (language of business & administration), Mandarin, Malay (national language), Tamil Most Singaporeans are bilingual and speak English and their mother tongue |
| Literacy: | 93% |
8. Currency
| Currency: | Singapore Dollar (S$/ SGD) |
9. Transportation
Public buses, taxis and the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) will conveniently bring to most parts of the island. It is recommended for commuters to purchase the Ez-link card, a “contactless” stored-value smartcard that may be purchased from any Transit Link Ticket Office, is used on buses and the MRT. For more information, click MRT and public bus.
10. Medical Facilities
| Type: | • Public/ private hospitals (24 hours) • Private clinics (24 hours/typically 0800hrs to 2100hrs) • Public polyclinics (0800hrs to 1630hrs) • Pharmacies (typically 0900hrs to 1800hrs) |
11. Standard of Living
When planning for the study in Singapore, students should need to cater to the following items:
- accommodation
- Utilities
- Telecommunications (such as mobile phones and internet services)
- Books & Stationery
- Medical/Hospitalisation Insurance
- Transportation
- Personal expenses
On average, an international student will spend about S$600 to S$2,000 per month on living expenses. The amount will vary depending on individual lifestyles. The following table will give student a rough estimate of the basic expenditure an international student may incur.
| Item: | Estimated cost per month (S$) |
| Accommodation: | S$200 – S$2,000 (rental varies with geographical area, type of accommodation, facilities provided and the number of people sharing) |
| Utilities: | S$50 – S$80 |
| Telecommunications: | From S$30 (Varies with usage and promotional packages subscribed) |
| Books & Stationery: | S$30 – S$50 |
| Medical Insurance: | S$5 – S$300 (depends on insurance policy) |
| Transportation: | S$50 – S$100 (on public transportations, excluding taxi trips) |
| Personal Expenses: | $100 – S$200 (varies with individual) (e.g. clothes, toiletries, entertainment, haircut, etc) |